Early Care and Education: A National Security Imperative

As military leaders look ahead to the future, they are increasingly concerned that there are not enough qualified candidates to defend our nation. This concern stems from problems including education, obesity, crime and drug abuse that render 71% of today’s young adults ineligible for military service.

If we do not address such problems early on in children’s lives, the nation risks a shortage of qualified recruits—one that will leave the country vulnerable for years to come and threaten the strength of the future military.

High-quality early care and education can help children develop healthy habits, as well as improve academic performance.

Ohio policymakers and their counterparts at the national level should continue to expand high-quality early education to help ensure that all children are prepared in mind, body, and character to succeed at whatever career they choose, including military service.